Bank Robber Seizes Epsom Initiative With Tramway Win

Illawarra Mercury

Wednesday September 10, 2008

By CHRIS ROOTS

BANK Robber gave Gai Waterhouse her first Group Three Tramway Handicap (1400m) win at Randwick yesterday and might just take her total of Group One Epsom Handicap (1600m) victories to five next month.

The promising Dash For Cash four-year-old toyed with his rivals to earn a direct path into Randwick's big spring mile on October 4 and drew glowing praise from Sydney's top trainer.

"He just had that boom factor when he made the run today," she said.

"At Warwick Farm last time he ran around a bit, but he might just be one of those horses that loves his home track," Waterhouse added.

After stalking leader Gotta Have Heart, Blake Shinn cantered Bank Robber up and went out at 200m to finish the contest.

Bank Robber, backed from $1.90 into $1.75, scored by two lengths from Kick 'N Chase, with Vecchia Roma 21/4 lengths away third.

The win quickly moved him into favourite for the Epsom at $5 alongside unbeaten stablemate Ashikaga and Triple Honour.

Chelmsford winner Gallant Tess is a $15 chance.

Ashikaga will try to qualify for the Epsom in Newcastle's Cameron Handicap (1400m) next Wednesday.